a blog about transition

Thoughts on the Election

I have privileges that so many trans people don’t. I transitioned at a young age, I’m on HRT, and I’ve had surgery. So many trans people don’t even get to dress the way they want.
We, as a community, are all scared right now of the same thing. The new White House administration. This election did have some good outcomes. Pat McCrory, infamous for passing HB2 (AKA the Bathroom Bill) was replaced by an LGBT friendly governor. Four women of color were elected to the senate. But we still have Trump, and Pence, and all the people that come with them.
LGBT rights are at stake. Marriage equality could be overturned, trans rights could be revoked, and our safe spaces (gay clubs, LGBT conferences, etc) are at risk. Orlando could be just a preview of what’s to come.
My parents keep reassuring me that I am safe. I live in Massachusetts, in a solid community, and I pass very well as cis. But I’m still scared. I’ve been called slurs and targeted for my gender identity and sexuality. I feel unsafe with the kids in my school who parade around with “Take back the rainbow” shirts and confederate flags and “Make America Great Again” hats. I am safe here though, and I know that. I’m so thankful for that. I have a supportive loving family and friend group. But I’m not just scared for me.
I’m scared for my friends who live outside of Massachusetts with unsupportive friends and family. Their lives are at risk. Obtaining clothes, HRT, surgery, legal changes, even just a social transition might be impossible. I’m scared for them because I care for them and I want them to have the same liberties I have.
I haven’t written about the election because I haven’t known what to say. I’m 15 years old and I live a pretty sheltered life. But it’s all becoming too real. My friend who lives in Boston told me they got harassed by Neo-Nazis because they have a disability and are queer. Boston is less than an hour away from where I live. I am queer and Jewish. Neo-Nazis could be living amongst me and they’re feeling bolder and ready to come out of the shadows.
Please listen to me and keep your friends and family and loved ones safe. The next two years are going to be very tough. Make sure to vote in the midterm elections so we can take back the House and prevent anything worse from happening. The moment I become eligible to vote, I will.